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Tumwater Tree Board unanimously asks city to post targeted messaging on tree care and code
Summary
The Tumwater Tree Board voted unanimously to recommend that the city post targeted external communications and social media messages about proper pruning, permit rules and the municipal code to educate residents.
The Tumwater Tree Board voted unanimously Monday to recommend that the City of Tumwater publish targeted messaging on the city’s external communications channels and social media to explain tree-permitting rules, proper pruning and the board’s work.
The board made the recommendation during a discussion about repeated instances of improper pruning and tree topping and a desire to make permit and enforcement information easier for residents to find. Brody, a Tree Board member, proposed the recommendation and the board approved it without recorded opposition.
Board members framed the action as an education and communications step rather than a change in enforcement authority. The recommendation asks that city communications present existing rules and procedures clearly and point residents to the city’s tree removal waiver and permit process.
The motion as recorded asked that the city “consider posting targeted messaging on their external communications and social media to further the mission and work of the Tree Board and the city’s municipal code.” The chair called for the vote, and members said “aye” with the motion recorded as unanimous.
The board discussed practical next steps during the meeting: drafting short guidance for social posts, linking to the existing tree removal waiver and code sections, and coordinating with the city communications division on timing and placement. Members also recommended using the city web site’s tree-board page to make information more accessible.
Because the board has advisory status, the recommendation directs city staff and the communications division to consider the messaging; it does not itself change the municipal code or enforcement practice.
The motion passed at the meeting held June 9, 2025; the Tree Board chair announced the result as unanimous. The board did not set a target date for specific posts but asked staff to return with draft language or a timeline in a future meeting.
